A GULF Country town has taken a giant step in the right direction as it plans for long-term growth and development.
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Burke Shire residents celebrated the official opening of the $3.7 million Burke Shire ‘‘Nijinda Durlga’’ (‘‘Our Place’’) – a community centre that derives its name from the local Gangalidda language. Burke Shire Mayor Ernie Camp declared the new facility in Burketown open to the community this week.
‘‘Today is a day of celebration for the people of the Burke Shire and another step forward in delivering quality infrastructure to the community,’’ Cr Camp said, as he also hinted that he hoped to see a few members of the council exchanging matrimonial vows shortly in the new facility.
The Burke Shire Nijinda Durlga houses several multi-purpose community meeting spaces, a commercial bar and kitchen for catering as well as a large community hall space. The outdoor decking provides a great view of the Burketown tennis courts and some parkland where the council is hoping to set up an outdoor cinema during the cooler months of the year.
Burke Shire Council chief executive Phil Keirle noted that the new facility was receiving ‘‘rave reviews’’.
Mr Keirle said the facility had attracted significant interest for future bookings.
‘‘From those seeking to host regional board meetings in Burketown, to those wishing to host community markets, family reunions and fishing competitions,’’ he said.
‘‘Our great hope is to see this facility used by all community members and community organisations. We expect the venue, with its amazing hall space, outdoor decking, bar and commercial kitchen, to provide the perfect setting for a wide range of council-run events and community fund-raisers as well as being a great resource to be shared with other commercial and government interests.
‘‘The modern and innovative facility will support the long-term growth and development of Burketown, providing the kind of first-class infrastructure that attracts residents and families to regional areas and provides the confidence for local residents and others to invest in the town’s potential.’’